Fundraising expenses may be substantial for clinics that have a significant shortfall between operating expenses and revenue and for clinics that require additional funding for future expansion or renovation. On the other hand, for clinics that are staffed mainly by volunteers, that are supported financially by a larger parent organization, or that have sufficient patient care or grant revenue to meet current operating expenses, fundraising expenses may be minimal.

Typical fundraising expenses include the following:

• Wages of fundraising staff, including support staff.
• Preparation and printing of solicitation materials, including donor letters, newsletters, and promotional materials.
• Web site development and maintenance.
• Establishment and maintenance of donor database.
• Postage and mailing expenses.
• Expenses of fundraising events, including staff time and supplies.

Regardless of the size of the fundraising program, a separate accounting of fundraising expenses (and revenue) is needed. Clinic managers have to assess the cost vs. the effectiveness of the fundraising effort to determine which fundraising activities “pay their way.”

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